Limerick Bus Ticketing: Calls for 90-Minute Fare System Expansion

Limerick city councillors are advocating for the implementation of a 90-minute fare system on local buses, mirroring the Transport for Ireland (TFI) 90 fare currently in use in Dublin. The proposed system would allow passengers to transfer between city buses within a 90-minute window on a single fare, potentially reducing travel costs and encouraging greater public transport usage.

Current Ticketing Costs and Challenges

Currently, passengers using a TFI Leap card pay €1.35 per bus journey in Limerick. This means a trip requiring two buses, such as from Caherdavin to Castletroy, costs €2.70. Alternatively, a 24-hour ticket is available for €3.60. The lack of integrated ticketing is seen as a barrier to convenient and affordable public transport.

Push for System Change

Independent councillor Elena Secas is leading the charge for the 90-minute fare system, arguing it will make bus travel more affordable and incentivize commuters to choose public transport over private vehicles, thereby reducing traffic congestion. Councillor Shane Hickey-O’Mara seconded Secas’s motion, with support from councillors Ursula Gavan and Maria Donoghue.

Contactless Payment Concerns

Fine Gael’s Peter Doyle highlighted the inability to use contactless bank cards on local buses, with only TFI Leap cards or cash currently accepted for payment. This limitation further underscores the need for modernized ticketing options.

Additional Transport Improvements

In a separate motion, Labour councillor Padraigh Reale secured a commitment from the council to request Transport for Ireland to formally recognize a bus stop at the junction of Pennywell Road, Clare Street, and Dublin Road. Although many drivers currently acknowledge the stop, inconsistencies in service have caused inconvenience for passengers. The route in question, the 304A, runs between Monaleen and Mungret Park, traversing the city centre via Johnsgate.

Background on Councillor Elena Secas

Councillor Elena Secas represents the Limerick City East Electoral Area and has been a member of the Limerick City and County Council since 2014. Originally from Moldova, she has focused on improving the quality of life in Limerick and advocating for community and family values. More information about Councillor Secas can be found on the Limerick.ie website.

Looking Ahead

The motions passed at the metropolitan meeting signal a growing momentum for improved public transport ticketing and infrastructure in Limerick. The council’s engagement with Transport for Ireland will be crucial in determining the feasibility and timeline for implementing these changes.